Feature documentary Harkness has been acquired for linear broadcast and theatrical release through CBC and levelFILM.

The doc is produced by Ed Barreveld of Storyline Entertainment and marks the feature directorial debut of Maria Markina. It follows Canadian indie psychedelic rock musician Harkness as he releases his debut album during summer 2021, with filming locations in Montreal, Toronto, New York City, and London, England.

CBC has acquired the film for documentary Channel, following an initial investment in the doc’s development, and levelFILM has acquired Canadian distribution rights for the theatrical release. The deal for levelFILM was led by Robin Smith, head of factual at the distributor.

Harkness recently picked up production funding from the Hot Docs-Slaight Family Fund, which supports Canadian music documentaries. Additional funding for the doc has been provided by the Canada Media Fund and DOC Institute.

Barreveld said in a statement that he was introduced to Markina and the film through the DOC Institute’s Breakthrough Program. “I loved everything about her presentation and I think this is going to be a very impressive feature documentary debut by a filmmaker to watch,” he said.

Image courtesy of Storyline Entertainment